Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue-eyed cichlid (Variabilichromis moorii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Variabilichromis moorii is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Adults are almost uniformly dark to black, while the young are bright yellow. The species reaches about 10 cm and lives along rocky shores, where it gobbles pieces of the biocover on the rocks in search of small invertebrates. It is a biparental substrate spawner: both parents fiercely and territorially guard the eggs and young laid on a rock surface. Owing to its strong parental behaviour and the colour change with age the species is popular with cichlid keepers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue-eyed cichlid?
The Blue-eyed cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Dark adults, bright yellow juveniles; fiercely territorial biparental substrate brooder.
Where does the Blue-eyed cichlid live?
The Blue-eyed cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa.
How big does the Blue-eyed cichlid get?
The Blue-eyed cichlid grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Blue-eyed cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue-eyed cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blue-eyed cichlid edible?
The Blue-eyed cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue-eyed cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue-eyed cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.